Affordable Vera Wang Wedding Gowns in 2010

I'm in the thick of planning my own wedding and I'm constantly on the hunt for deals in this recession. Most wedding vendors are struggling right now, so bargaining with them can actually work in your favor. I've received up to 20 percent off on things like wedding invitations, videography, and even the band. If you're planning to get married next year, you'll have some luxurious and affordable options, especially if you're eyeing a Vera Wang wedding gown. Yes, an affordable Vera Wang wedding gown! Sounds like an oxymoron, I know. The designer presented her Spring 2010 bridal collection in her New York showroom today. Wang, who calls the gowns "demi-couture," has lowered her median price point 30 to 40 percent, from $5,500 to $3,800, according to the Fashion Wire Daily. She's worked to get the prices down, but says she hasn't sacrificed the quality. "There are 10 gowns at the $3,800 level," said Wang.

The gowns may be more affordable, but they're not exactly what you would call traditional. According to the FWD, "Wang's wedding gowns mixed and matched fabrics like silk with asymmetrically draped tulle, added mismatched bows tied in all different directions and tacked together sweeping mille-feuille layers, turning the back of one ball gown into a walking cross-section of the Grand Canyon." To those who might not touch something like this with a ten-foot pole, Wang points out that these gowns are for very specific locations, like a garden wedding. "Especially with the recession, I wanted the dresses to stand for more," said Wang.